 News
11th June 2008
Families spending less time tgetherJust a generation
ago, spending time with the family was the norm with the majority of us able to
enjoy daily meals and plenty of time together. These days, more than half
of families in the UK say that they are unable to spend time with loved ones on
a daily basis and an astounding 16 per cent saying they only get to see their
families once a week or less, according to research released today by Clover.
The good news for younger parents is that they been named the most family
orientated with seven out of ten under 25 year olds making sure they dedicate
time at least once a day to their family, compared with 39 per cent of 35-44 year
olds. This lack of time is also impacting on mealtimes with a third of
families eating only one meal a day together and 18 per cent saying that they
only have time for one to three meals together a week. Clinical psychologist
and parenting expert, Claire Halsey says “It’s important to make the most of your
family and there are many different activities you can take part in, no matter
how limited your time. Just a few tiny changes to our everyday lives can make
a huge difference to the time we spend together. “Cooking is an activity
to get the children involved in and whilst some adults think that time in the
kitchen is a chore, you’ll fine that most children would love the chance to roll
up their sleeves and get involved! “In addition, cooking can be educational
as children learn and practise new skills and gain a better understanding of where
food comes from. It will also help motivate fussy eaters as you’ll often find
that children’s meals seem a lot tastier to them if they’ve had a hand in the
making!" Claire’s Top Tips for spending more time with the family:
- Don’t feel as though you have to put aside hours, you can spend time
with your family whilst carrying out simple tasks
- Ask your children to
come and chat with you whilst you’re preparing dinner or hanging out the washing
- Get the children to do their homework at the kitchen/dining table instead
of their room, ensuring that the TV/radio is off, as this will encourage them
to talk about what they’re doing and allow you to help
- Try eating at
least one meal a day together even if its only first thing
- Let the children
get involved in cooking – it’s educational and will also give children a better
understanding of where food comes from
Clover spread can be used
in many recipes. Visit Clover
for some ideas. Where to next? | 
